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Deakin Life Student news and insights

10 March 2021

How to look after yourself as you get used to a new way of studying

As our wonderful campuses spring back to life in Trimester 1, we’re excitedly looking ahead to more opportunities for face-to-face teaching, socialising and connecting. Rest assured that this will always be done in a COVIDSafe way and with the health of the whole Deakin community in mind.

As you get used to ‘integrated learning’ in T1 – which is basically just a fancy way of saying that you’ll probably be studying both on campus and online – it’s important to make sure you’re taking care of yourself, physically and mentally.

The effects of 2020 can’t be underestimated and it may take some time to adjust to the new ‘COVID-Normal’ world we now live in – especially as there will likely be further hiccups and setbacks for some time to come.

Deakin Wellbeing Ambassador AkandDeakin Wellbeing Ambassador Akand has the following advice for looking after yourself: ‘The key to improving your mood starts with being aware of what you’re feeling. Being mindful of your thoughts and emotions lets you attend to what’s most important in life – you.’

So we want you to do just that: put your wellbeing first, and stay happy and healthy. That’s the only way you’ll succeed at uni and enjoy everything Deakin has to offer.

Here’s some things to try.

Get some decent sleep

Remember when you were a kid and you had a regular bedtime every night? Make your own bedtime routine – and switch off your devices at least an hour before bed for a more restful sleep.

Exercise regularly

Did you miss out on social sport or gym time last year, or lose motivation to stay active? Get back at it! Go for a walk with a friend, use a bike to get around, take the stairs when you can or try a new sport. Who cares how you look or if you’re any good? All that matters is you’re being active while having a bit of fun.

Ditch the smokes

Make 2021 the year you quit smoking – there’s amazing help available. As soon as you stop smoking, your body begins to repair itself; over time, your risk of life-threatening health problems, including cancer, reduces dramatically. 

Try a digital detox

Reckon you can live without your devices for a few hours – or even a few days? Give it a go and see how time away from a screen can rejuvenate you!

Have a health check

With COVID-19 dominating in 2020, you may have put other medical concerns aside. Do yourself a favour at the start of trimester and book in for a health check. You can do this for free on campus at the Deakin Medical Centre.

Apply the lessons of lockdown

While restrictions were tough, for some people being forced to slow down and suspend old habits or routines was a blessing in disguise. Keep up any new-found passions and ask yourself what’s really important to you. Give yourself permission to say ‘no’ to activities when you’re feeling depleted, make time each day to do the things you love and don’t over‑schedule yourself.

Know that your feelings are valid

Pay attention to your emotions and recognise that they may fluctuate at times. Talk to a friend or download an app like Smiling Mind to practise meditation. If you start to feel excessively stressed or anxious, start to withdraw from friends and family, or notice unusual symptoms or emotions, it might be wise to seek some help.

Ask for help

For emergency, 24-hour support, contact LifeLine or SuicideLine. Deakin also has a range of student support services:



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